News From the Archdiocese of Birmingham

Reflection

This year in Lourdes our prayers and thoughts will be focussed on the Annunciation “And Mary said, 'Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word'”.

The Annunciation is not just a distant event. It is the embodiment of every beginning in faith. At that precise moment, Mary did not know the future. She had no detailed map. She had no idea about the flight into Egypt or the darkness of the Cross. Mary’s agreement is the ‘yes’ that changes history.

As Mary says “...let it be to me according to your word”, she shows absolute trust. Mary does not ask to understand but entrusts herself to the power and fidelity of the One who has spoken. It is an act of absolute trust, a desire that is aligned to God’s promise, even when it defies all logic.

The ‘yes’ of those who will go on pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady in Lourdes next week mirrors that of Our Lady. Every pilgrimage is peppered with “Behold, here I am” moments. It’s not just words, but the heartfelt promise to be present and to serve, trusting in God’s grace. Lourdes is a place of renewal where we open ourselves to going where our unique calling from God leads us.

As we go on pilgrimage, we make our own the prayer of Pope Saint Paul VI in 1975: “O Mary, may we too, respond each day to the Lord’s call with a humble and strong ‘Yes’, so that our humble lives may become through the power of your Son and the action of the Holy Spirit, a place where God dwells and an instrument for the salvation of all”. Amen.

Fr Jeremy Howard

Pilgrimage Director

Follow the Lourdes Pilgrimage

The annual Diocesan Pilgrimage runs from next Monday 25 to Saturday 30 May, under the leadership of His Grace, Archbishop Bernard Longley and Bishops David Evans, Timothy Menezes and Richard Walker.

Almost 600 pilgrims are set to travel on the Diocesan Pilgrimage. Also joining our pilgrimage family this year will be representatives of Stella Maris, (Apostleship of the Sea).

The theme for 2026 is "Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with thee" and marks the start of a three-year journey with Mary.

The schedule for this year’s Pilgrimage is now available on our website.

Please do follow the Lourdes Pilgrimage on our website and by using the hashtag #Brum2Lourdes on social media.

Frank's cycle ride to Lourdes

Parishioner and school governor Frank Tota is now well on his way to Lourdes - having started cycling the 800 miles from Worcester earlier this month.

The 70-year-old of St George’s parish, Worcester, is intending to join the hundreds of pilgrims on day one of the Pilgrimage, Monday 25 May, after a mammoth 20-day journey.

Frank, a retired RE teacher of Blessed Edward Oldcorne Catholic College, and now a governor there, is cycling to help raise funds to complete the St David’s Medical Centre in Nyandoro, Zimbabwe, of which the parish and school community have been involved in fundraising for several years.

Make an impact on Catholic education

The Diocesan Education Service is seeking: St Michael the Archangel CMAT Board Members

This is a unique opportunity to make a real impact on Catholic education. We are looking for passionate and skilled individuals to join the Board of Directors and help guide the strategic direction of the CMAT (Catholic Multi-Academy Trust), working alongside the CEO Designate, Suzanne Horan, and a dedicated Executive Team.

The CMAT will serve schools across South Birmingham, Solihull, Chelmsley Wood and Worcestershire, bringing together Emmaus, Lumen Christi and Our Lady & All Saints Multi-Academy Companies (MACs) and additional voluntary aided schools.

Closing date: Friday 5 June

What should Maryvale teach next?

Under the guidance of the Archbishop of Birmingham, Maryvale Institute is planning its Further Education programme for 2027/28 and we want to hear from you. Are you interested in Theology and faith? What are you hoping to study?

Five minutes of your time could help to influence what courses we offer.

School bookings for 2026/27 now open for St Chad's Cathedral

School children and their teachers are invited to visit the Metropolitan Cathedral and Basilica of St Chad (St Chad's Cathedral) during the school year 2026/27. Bookings are now open.

School visits take place on weekday mornings (Tuesday - Friday) from 9.45am, with most schools staying for the 12.15pm Mass.

Oxford’s Carmelite Friars Open Their Doors to Three Young Men in Channel 5 Documentary

A community of Discalced Carmelite friars living in the Oxfordshire countryside has welcomed three young men into their priory for a week-long immersive experience, filmed for the Channel 5 documentary series Trading Places.

The programme follows the young men as they swap their everyday lives for the rhythm of prayer, silence, community, and manual work that defines the daily routine of the friars at the Carmelite Priory on Boars Hill, near Oxford.

The Carmelite episode broadcasts on Sunday 24 May at 9pm on Channel 5.

The Priory, set in seventeen acres of woodland, is home to a growing community of friars from diverse backgrounds, including Nigeria, India, and Ireland.

Starts next week: Annual Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help

The Annual Solemn Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help will take place at St Francis of Assisi, Handsworth, Birmingham, from Monday 25 May to Wednesday 3 June.

Led by Fr Seamus Devitt CSsR, weekday Masses will be celebrated at 12 noon and 7pm, with special Masses for the sick and housebound, and a Mass of Healing. All are welcome to join in prayer during this special time of devotion.

Journey to 2030 Network Meeting (online)

Tuesday 26 May, 7pm to 8pm. An event from the Ecological Conversion Group. Free to attend - registration required.

A welcoming online forum for connection, collaboration, and inspiration around integral ecology. These network meetings offer space to share ideas, projects, challenges, and hopes, as we explore how Church communities can respond to the cries of the earth and the poor.

Joining us for this meeting is Fr Emmanuel Katongole, co-founder of the Bethany Land Institute, an NGO in Uganda. Fr Emmanuel is a Professor of Theology and Peace Studies at the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, IN, and the author of several books concerning the intersection of Africa, the environment, and reconciliation.

Zoom Open Evening: Dominicans' Certificate in Catechesis

Friday 29 May, 7-8pm

An online open evening giving you the opportunity to find out more about the Light of Truth Certificate in Catechesis: a 2-year, part-time, distance learning certificate, for both new and experienced catechists, which aims to develop catechists' understanding of their mission in the Church and of the mysteries of faith which they transmit to others in a changing cultural context.

Catholic Medical Association Annual Conference

Healthcare professionals and students are invited to the Catholic Medical Association Annual Conference at St Chad’s Cathedral, Birmingham, on Saturday 30 May, 9am - 6.30pm.

This year’s theme, “Granting Protection, Offering Care: Current Catholic Challenges in Healthcare,” will explore key issues including the maternity crisis, abortion legislation, faith-based care, assisted dying, and emerging medical topics.

The day includes expert speakers and a keynote address from Archbishop John Sherrington, Lead Bishop for Life Issues, networking opportunities, Mass at St Chad’s Cathedral, and an optional visit to the St John Henry Newman Museum at Birmingham Oratory.

Medical students, doctors, and allied healthcare professionals across the UK and Ireland.

Head of Finance Needed for Father Hudson's Caritas

Father Hudson’s Caritas (FHC) based in Coleshill, Warwickshire, is seeking a Head of Finance to join its senior leadership team, overseeing finance, IT, estates and facilities.

The role offers a salary of £56,947 - £64,612 and plays a key part in supporting the charity’s mission and future strategy.

The organisation, which has served communities across the Archdiocese of Birmingham for over 124 years, is looking for a values-led leader committed to supporting vulnerable people.

Closing date: Monday 1 June.

Educating against antisemitism

An online event by Bal Kot International: Ancient Texts for Our Troubled Times.

How can Christians educate against antisemitism? One way is to ensure that Scripture is taught responsibly, free of inadvertent anti-Jewish prejudice.

In three one-hour presentations delivered online, renowned New Testament scholar Prof. Amy-Jill Levine will explore the following topics (all at 2.30pm UK time):

• Misunderstanding Jewish Practice and Belief Means Misunderstanding Jesus and Paul: Tue 2 June
• Antisemitism: Why Does it Persist in Catholic Preaching and Teaching 60 Years After Nostra Aetate #4?: Tue 4 August
• Supersessionism: Naming and Addressing the Issue: Tue 1 September

Raising teenagers in a Catholic family

Online, Tuesday 2 June, 8pm.

CELEBRATE Trust is offering an upcoming webinars for parents and carers of teenagers, recognising that raising young people today can be both joyful and challenging. The sessions bring together experienced Catholic speakers to offer encouragement, confidence, and practical ideas for family life.

Raising Teenagers in a Catholic Family

Adolescence can feel like a “rebirth” for both child and parent, often requiring families to learn new ways of relating and communicating.

In this webinar, Mike and Alicia from the Messy Family Project (USA) explore this important transition, reminding parents that God provides the grace needed for every stage of family life.

Drawing on their experience of Catholic family ministry, they offer empathy, insight, and practical guidance for navigating the tween and teen years by deepening relationships and modelling the values parents hope to pass on.

People’s Emergency Briefing Screening, MAC Birmingham

The People’s Emergency Briefing will be screened at MAC (Midlands Arts Centre) Birmingham on Sunday 7 June, at 3pm.

The film brings together leading UK scientists and contributors including Chris Packham and Deborah Meaden, exploring how the climate and nature crisis affects daily life in the UK. Tickets for the screening must be booked in advance and are available on a Pay What You Choose basis. A short community discussion will follow.

After the screening, there will be an optional time of prayer and reflection hosted by the Columbans. Those wishing to attend this prayer gathering will need to register their interest separately.

You are encouraged to look out for other screenings taking place in your local area, and parishes, schools and community groups are invited to consider hosting their own screening as part of ongoing care for Creation.

Retreat at St Paul's Convent, Selly Park, Birmingham

With Canon Luke Smith, Archdiocese of Southwark, Monday 8 to Friday 12 June:

Rejoicing in hearing the voice of the Bridegroom - Spiritual lessons from St John the Baptist

Retreat begins with supper at 6pm and ends after breakfast on the last day.

Youth Alpha Series

Want to know more about the New Alpha Youth Series?

Kenelm Youth Trust will be hosting an information Zoom meeting for parish leaders who are wanting to know more about the new series and how to run this with young people in their settings.

Join them at 7pm on Wednesday 10 June via Zoom to find out more.

Jewish Life Experience Exhibition

Invitation via Fr Jeremy Howard

As part of Jewish Culture Month there is a Jewish Life Experience Exhibition at Birmingham Central Synagogue, Speedwell Road, Birmingham.

The exhibition is one of the educational resources created by the Board of Deputies of British Jews to encourage a greater understanding of Judaism.

It is an opportunity to learn about Jewish beliefs and culture, including the festivals, life cycle events, traditional clothing, kosher food etc in a hands-on, interactive way. There is also the possibility of seeing Central Synagogue.

On Thursday 11 June, at 2pm, the Birmingham branch of The Council of Christians and Jews is coordinating a group visit.

Please let me know if you would like to join this visit - fr.jeremy.howard@rcaob.org.uk / 07868 542268.

You can also book a visit for yourself at jewishlifeexhibition@gmail.com

World Youth Day, Seoul Information Night

Register for the Information Night with Kenelm Youth Trust (KYT) on Monday 11 June on Zoom at 7pm.

An invitation from KYT:

World Youth Day 2027 – Seoul, South Korea

July 26 - Aug 8 (flight dependent). Price £2,500 (approx due to air travel).

Are you a young person aged 18+ by the date of travel? Young people from every corner of the world are heading to Seoul for an unforgettable celebration of faith and you could be one of them! Find out more on the KYT website: Kenelm Youth Trust: World Youth Day 2027

World Youth Day is your chance to experience the universal Church like never before: praying, celebrating, serving and worshipping alongside over half a million young Catholics united as one global family. From days in the diocese to powerful vigils and masses, every moment is filled with energy, joy, and encounter.

Set against the incredible beauty and culture of South Korea, this is more than a trip, it’s an adventure of faith, a chance to grow, to serve, and to discover what it truly means to belong to our universal Church.

Recruitment Day at Father Hudson's Caritas

Looking to work in Adult Care?

Come along to the FHC Recruitment Open Day, Saturday 13 June, to find out more about working in Adult Care, which includes:

St Catherine’s Bungalows

St Joseph’s Care Home

Coleshill Day Services

Supported Living & Domiciliary Care

You’ll have the chance to meet our team, explore your options and make connections.

Invitation to Training Day from Restore

St John's Church, Harborne, Birmingham on Saturday 13 June

Could you befriend a refugee?

This course is for anyone interested in learning more about refugees, or those considering volunteering as a befriender with Restore.

Session 1 - Introduction to Restore and the global refugee situation

Session 2 - The asylum process in the UK and resettlement schemes

Session 3 - Guidelines and boundaries in befriending relationships.

Restore, a project of Birmingham Churches Together, works with refugees and asylum seekers in Birmingham, Solihull and Smethwick.

Jobs and Volunteering

Opportunities with the Archdiocese and other organisations

Paid positions

Office Finance and CRM Administrator for Friends of the Holy Land, based in Kenilworth.

Closing date 29 May, but may close early if strong candidates are found.

Term Time Chef for St Mary's College, Oscott. Permanent contract, term time only.

Closing date 22 May.

Father Hudson's Caritas provides social care throughout the Archdiocese.

Roles currently available:

Head of Finance. Closing date 1 June.

Relief Reception and Administrative Assistant. Closing date 25 June.

Relief Support Worker. No closing date.

Foster Carers. No closing date.

St Joseph's Residential Care Home, Relief Care Assistants. No closing date.

Roman Catholic Chaplain at HM Prison Swinfen Hall, Lichfield, Staffordshire. Part-time, permanent role.

Closing date 29 May.

Voluntary Positions

Lead Trustee for Safeguarding and Lead Trustee for Property

The Trustees are seeking to appoint skilled and committed Catholic volunteers with relevant professional experience.

St Michael the Archangel CMAT Board Members

This is a unique opportunity to make a real impact on Catholic education.

The CMAT will serve schools across South Birmingham, Solihull, Chelmsley Wood and Worcestershire, bringing together Emmaus, Lumen Christi and Our Lady & All Saints Multi-Academy Companies (MACs) and additional voluntary aided schools.

Closing date: Friday 5 June.

Several other opportunities are also advertised on our website including:

Laudato Si Volunteers. Following on from the success of the programme of retreat days for primary school groups launched in 2025, St Mary's College, Oscott is now looking to recruit more volunteers to support the roll out to secondary school pupils in Autumn 2026.

Join KYT's Mission Team

An opportunity for 18 - 25 years olds at the Kenelm Youth Trust.

Train and Volunteer as a Relationship Counsellor with Marriage Care.

Become a Faith Rep with Mary's Meals.

Parish Appealers are needed by Aid to the Church in Need (ACN).

Volunteer at Tabor Living, Birmingham.

ADoRE spiritual mini-retreat

Saturday 23 May, 10am-1pm on Zoom. "THE GIFTS AND FRUIT OF LOVE.” How the Holy Spirit empowers us to be other Christs.

Mini retreat morning Including Mass, Adoration, Praise, Prophecy, Prayer for the gifts of the Holy Spirit and inspiring talk from guest speaker Dr. Maria Heath, Director of Mission Northampton

Four-day retreat “Tasting the Silence”

Spring retreat at St Hilda's Priory, Whitby - Thursday 28 May to Sunday 31 May.

This retreat is ideal for those beginning with contemplative prayer as well as for those not used to spending any extended time in silence. It is simply and clearly led.

We stay in silence before God in silent meditation as a group as well as individually outside in nature.

These days of prayer are a school of awareness: listening, looking, alert and open with all our senses to the here and now. What is important is to be willing to remain lovingly alert to the silence and to be open to God´s presence in each moment wherever you are.

For more information and to book please contact Sister Helen Stout:

Email: hospitality@ohpwhitby.org.uk

Tel: 01947 899600

In-person day retreat: Joy of Limits

Saturday 6 June, 10am-4pm (Optional Vigil Mass at 4:30pm). FCJ Centre for Spirituality and EcoJustice, Somers Town, London.

“Unless these things are appreciated artistically they are not appreciated at all.” G.K. Chesterton

The retreat will be a day full of contemplation, talks, discussion, observational and imaginative drawing and sharing some simple food. There is no need to be an accomplished artist to enjoy the day, even those who think they can only draw a stickman will find a day of calm reflection and fellowship.

"The Joy of Limits” is led by Sr MaryAnne Francalanza, a Faithful Companion of Jesus and director of the FCJ Centre for Spirituality and EcoJustice, and John Paul de Quay who is an illustrator and director of the Ecological Conversion Group charity.

In case you missed us earlier this year, we are excited to offer a second opportunity to explore the materials from our debut ‘Art of Limits’ retreat held in February.

Heart to Heart

19 - 22 June. A three-day retreat for women in any state of life, based on principles of Ignatian spirituality.

Guided by Fr Bernard Murphy, CFR and Franciscan Sisters of the Renewal, the retreat will seek to draw participants closer to the Lord through a greater attentiveness to His will.

Run by the Christian Heritage Centre at Clitheroe, Lancashire.

CELEBRATE Festival 2026 Announced

CELEBRATE festival returns to Worth School, West Sussex, from 15 - 19 August, bringing together around 1,000 people for worship, teaching and community.

With the theme “Let There Be Light,” the event will feature keynote speakers, Masses with bishops, and programmes for all ages.

Run by the CELEBRATE Trust, tickets are now available with family, individual and camping options.

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